University of Montana Western head football coach B.J. Robertson has announced the signing of Red Lodge, Mont., senior Aaron Loewen and Chino, Cali., senior Blake Manning to Frontier Conference/NAIA letters of intent.

UMW Signee Aaron LoewenLoewen is a 6’ 3” 250 pound offensive lineman who finished his career with Red Lodge High School. Aarron has played offensive tackle during his career for the Rams. With his play on the field he was honored as a first team all-conference selection his senior year.

Aaron plans to study elementary education while attending Montana Western. He is the son of Bryan and Tammy Loewen.

"The recruiting process is all about the right fit. We have gotten to know Aaron since he visited during our season,” said Coach Robertson. “He was looking for elementary education and we were interested in adding Aaron's size, strong character, and athleticism to our offensive line. What was also impressive was the strong run Red Lodge made in the play-offs this year which is a compliment to Aaron, his teammates, Coach Fitzgerald, and staff. We are thrilled Western is the right fit for Aaron.”

New Bulldog receiver Blake ManningManning is a 6’ 1” 180 pound linebacker from Ontario Christian High School in California. He has played numerous positions during his prep career including strong safety and half-back. His senior year he started on both sides of the ball for the Knights at running back and safety. He had a 6.62 yard average with his 417 yards on 63 rushing attempts. He scored four touchdowns and added nine receptions for 115 yards. Defensively Blake ranked No. 1 in the Southern Section for sacks by a defensive back recording six while also tallying 11 tackles for loss from his safety position. In his junior campaign he scored four touchdowns while averaging over seven yards a carry and better than 12 yards a reception. Defensively he totaled 60 tackles, two sacks, and forcing two fumbles. He helped lead the team to a 13-1 record while reaching the CIF finals.

“Initially what stood out to us about Blake was his speed and athleticism on the field. We also love that Blake competes year round in football, volleyball, and soccer,” Coach Robertson said. “It speaks to his athleticism as well as his competitiveness. What was even more impressive about Blake is his off the field commitment to his community and dedication to community service. We are excited he has decided to join the Bulldog Football Family.”

Blake plans to study business administration while attending Montana Western. He is the son of Sam and Deborah Manning.